Living by the scriptures

And now, verily I say unto you, and what I say unto one I say unto all, be of good cheer, little children; for I am in your midst, and I have not forsaken you;

And inasmuch as you have humbled yourselves before me, the blessings of the kingdom are yours. - D&C 61:36-37

Just months after our marriage, my husband and I had to change our expectations for living "happily ever after" when we learned he had a terminal illness. For six years, we endured the difficulties together, he and I. I had never felt the confidence I needed to tackle the world on my own, but as a prospective widow with two small children, I faced the terrifying challenges of walking through the valley of the shadow with my beloved and giving him up, of handling a financial situation that would be daunting even for the most seasoned, and of finding the courage and wisdom to provide a family life for my little ones that would fill their needs as they grew up. I felt lost, afraid, and completely alone.

As I read the verses of this scripture, the spirit bore witness with warmth and peace. He knew my needs; I didn't have to do it alone.

With His help, we have made it through my husband's death, the financial mine field, and a constant variety of challenges that have followed. In the process, I've developed the strengths and abilities I've needed. I continue to read this scripture when I'm fearful or uncertain, or just to savor its comfort. My once little children are now busy working their way into the adult world. The life we have lived together these past years has been very different from the way I dreamed it would be, but as we make ourselves worthy, the Lord has promised us the blessings of the kingdom, our "happily ever after" in its purest sense. Truly He has not forsaken us. - Barbara S. Coulson, Idaho Falls, Idaho.

"Living by the Scriptures" is another in a series of Church News reader-response articles.

Was there a time when a particular scripture touched you, when it offered comfort, guidance and much-needed support? If so, please describe your experience in 300 words or less, giving the scripture reference and telling how it affected you.